MapQuest Mobile App Adds Routing Based on Traffic

MapQuest recently added a new feature to their mobile app that now optimizes routing automatically based upon current traffic congestion.

MapQuest has licensed traffic data from INRIX that includes both probe and historical traffic information. MapQuest is using these data for its dynamic rerouting function. The updated app includes voice-guided, turn-by-turn directions, pedestrian navigation and simplified searching for POIs.

According to Brian McMahon, general manager, MapQuest is investing heavily to integrate its line of travel products. For example, as people add information such as reviews of restaurants or hotels through MapQuest travel blogs, the company is optimizing its platform to expose this information in POI searches. "This will be deeply integrated into [our] products," said McMahon. The objective is to create a richer data archive for users of MapQuest's navigation and travel products.

MapQuest has been heavily investing in OpenStreetMap as its presentation engine. MapQuest is also continuing to support APIs for developers.